Chapter 5 God Our Father I Introduction A

Chapter 5 God Our Father

I. Introduction A. Atheists - do not believe in God or any higher power - Argue that science can not prove God’s existence B. Agnostics – persons who claims neither faith nor disbelief in God. - We know about God because God has chosen to reveal himself to us.

II. The Trinity A. Trinity – the mystery of one God in three persons; central mystery of Christian faith B. Monotheism – belief in one God; comes from Jewish tradition—unique to ancient civilizations. (Dt 6: 4 -5) C. Father, Son, and Holy Spirit combine to make one GOD. Three different roles, ONE GOD.

II. Trinity -Jesus introduced the idea of the Trinity to the Apostles. 1. God, the Father, is Creator 2. Jesus, the Son, is Savior 3. Holy Spirit is the one who helps us become holy. (Sanctifier) All are inseparable and share in the “work” ex. – all present at Creation. Central thing the Trinity teaches us is that God is not solitary; God exists as a “community”

III. Father Almighty A. Describes relationship with God B. Jesus called God Father or “ Abba”, close and personal word for father (Daddy) C. Many Jews at the time viewed God as judge or king not as a loving Parent. D. Almighty refers to the fact that there is no creature, no power, and no force that is more powerful than God!

III. Father Almighty God is: Omnipotent—all-powerful Omnipresent—God is everywhere Omniscient—all-knowing

IV. Creator of Heaven and Earth -Creator (Father) of everything that exists -Science seeks to explain the how of creation but cannot explain the “why” -The why is revealed to us by God himself -God wishes to share his love and goodness with every creature (Garden of Eden) -Original Sin – disrupted God’s plan for creation – but God doesn’t give up on us

IV. Creator of Heaven and Earth A. Creation (continued) 1. There is a reality beyond our senses 2. Nicene Creed – we believe in God, “maker of all things visible and invisible” 3. Angels do exist - beings of spirit, not matter - they have intelligence and will - they are immortal - purpose is to be God’s servants and messengers and to glorify God

V. God is Truth and Love - The story of Moses and the burning bush tells us God reveals His name as “ I am who I am” (Ex 3) - God is merciful and gracious - God is slow to anger - God is abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness - God is truth - God is love

Sidebars • Proof for the Existence of God – read p. 58 • The Problem with Evil – read p. 59

Blessed Julian of Norwich (ca. 1342 -1420) • An anchoress (recluse) who lived a life of solitude and contemplation • Famous for her compassion and optimism • Received 16 visions on the Passion of Christ, the Trinity, and other mysteries • Wrote Book of Showings, also known as the Revelations of Divine Love • Feast day – May 8